Meet Lui Monforte | Restauranteur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lui Monforte and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lui, what’s the most difficult decision you’ve ever had to make?
Leaving our home country, family and friends to roll the dice in Texas, U.S.A!

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
We own an Australian style restaurant called The Aussie Grind, in Frisco, Texas. My wife and I use to vacation a lot over here and all we noticed missing from the great selection of cuisine was what we specialised in, so the initial decision was easy, the rest was the hard part. We sold everything we owned, said goodbye to our loved ones and jumped through all the immigration hoops to make it happen. After an upbringing in the food industry and owning our own restaurant for 8 years, we felt equipped for the challenge. What we didn’t predict was the pandemic and all the curve balls that went along with it! However we’ve been so lucky to have the support from our regulars, community and a fantastic team that pulled us through, which we will be forever grateful for.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
This is easy as our Aussie friends all love how unique the whole picture of DFW is! We would start at our good friend’s and roaster at Full City Rooster on S Akard to get the caffeine fix for the big day ahead. Sorry to be predictable, but the JFK site is a must for those who have never seen it before. The Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum is also moving experience, essential. We like to show off our city a bit so Forty Five Ten is a good flex for retail. Head over to Trinity Grove for photo ops and the best cake (other than Mum’s) at Cake Bar. Lunch will be at Eataly, Terra, mmmm, pasta. Head back to Legacy for some more shopping and car spotting, then Dinner at our friends at Union Bear Plano. Our Aussie friends also love to visit the BBQ restaurants, which we are more than happy to oblige, from Pecan Lodge, Tenders and Huchins, they all have their strengths and we are weak for good food!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The strong women in my life. My Mum, who has been a constant inspiration and supported me, even when my ideas seem crazy! My wife, who everyday is by my side on this journey and works tirelessly to ensure our success.

Website: www.theaussiegrind.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/theaussiegrind

Facebook: The Aussie Grind

Yelp: https://yelp.to/yfEu2rQHogb